Environmental Response Fund

Who can apply

Applicants can include developers, municipalities, economic development agencies, housing and redevelopment authorities, government entities, nonprofit organizations, and private for-profit companies.

Types of projects

Qualifying projects include environmental assessment and cleanup of contaminated sites where cost is a barrier. Priority is given to projects that promote economic development or affordable housing. Learn more on the Hennepin County website.

Application and funding timeline 

Requests for proposals and applications are managed through the Hennepin County Supplier Portal.

Amount available

• No minimum or maximum awards
• Grant amounts vary depending on project need
• Matching funds not required

Community impact

To date, Hennepin County has awarded almost 400 grants:

• Totaling about $56 million
• Leveraging over $1.7 billion in private development investments
• Removing environmental contamination at almost 400 sites totaling more than 3,360 acres

Related links and materials

• Case study: Surly Brewing Co.
• Other county funds for site cleanup and assessment
• Environmental Response Fund brochure (PDF)